Mark Barnes arrived at Shelby (N.C.) Crest High two years ago after a successful run at Laurinburg (N.C.) Scotland County High, where among others he coached former NC State linebacker Terrell Manning.

In Barnes' first two years in Shelby he has led Crest to two straight 3-AA state title game appearances, and his team if off to a 4-1 start in year three.

Throughout his entire run at Crest, there has been one constant at linebacker: Quinton Patterson.